Latvian Defense

Defense Policies in the World War II Era

During World War II, Latvia was one of three countries that faced constant battles during and after the War. After the conclusion of World War II, Latvia was occupied by Soviet Union forces under the Stalin regime. As Stalin attempted to take over Latvia and other small countries like Lithuania, there were many repercussions upon Latvia's involvement in international affairs. Stalin did whatever he could to remove top governmental officials who were from Latvia from posts. By removing Latvian governmental officials, Stalin was able to effectively eradicate any influence whatsoever that Latvia could have in the international political sphere.

Events in the post-World War II era have largely shaped the way in which the military of Latvia functions today. The military of Latvia is centered on protecting the interests of Latvia and protecting it from any potential overtaking by major sources of power in the world.

Contemporary Defense Policy in Latvia

Today, the National Armed Forces make up the military force of Latvia. The defense strategy of Latvia is to respond immediately to any threats or attacks. The last draft to be conducted for the Latvian military was in 2005. Central to the values shaping Latvia's military policy is the idea of sovereignty and protecting the nation-state. The National Armed Forces are comprised of multiple forces including the Naval Forces, National Guard, Air Forces and Land Forces.

Latvia has signed onto the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation and is also part of the European Union. The security that Latvia now has is at the highest that it has had throughout its history. Latvia is also a member state of the United Nations, and this has a large influence on its foreign relations policies.

Latvia has publicly stated that one of its top goals is to strengthen its national security. Latvia attempts to be of assistance in the international sphere in getting rid of international threats when it knows about them.

The benefit to Latvia of being a part of the EU and NATO is that it may be more able to focus on its own economic development. Because Latvia now has heightened security from its allies in the EU and NATO, Latvia will be able to focus on improving its own economic interests. At the same time, Latvia continues to also develop its own democratic system and national independence.

In the future, Latvia's foreign policy is committed to strengthening its role in the EU and NATO. Latvia continues to attempt to be a strong ally as part of these pacts. Latvia also seeks to develop greater cooperation with other Baltic Sea countries like Lithuania. There are no direct military threats that are currently impacting Latvia.

Latvia's public national security policy states that it aims to continue developing efficient military forces. It also seeks to participate in the international military and attempt to sustain peace-keeping operations abroad. Latvia also seeks to strengthen the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation and also be a strong member of the European Union.